From Scones to Snowcaps: My Regal Ride Aboard Queen Elizabeth

If you’re dreaming of snow-capped mountains, icy fjords, and the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest, this 7-night Alaskan cruise itinerary from Vancouver offers a stunning way to experience the wild wonders of the Last Frontier. Here’s a look at what awaits you on this unforgettable voyage:

Farewell Vancouver

We set sail from the vibrant city of Vancouver. With its unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, Vancouver was the perfect launching point for our Alaskan adventure. We were welcomed aboard Queen Elizabeth  and settled in nicely in the Garden Terrace while we waited for our luggage to be delivered to our cabins , taking in panoramic views of the city skyline and coastal mountains as you depart.

Gliding through Tracy Arm Fjord

The constant changing landscape sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord, a narrow, glacier-carved passage flanked by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls had us in awe of the untouched paradise. The highlight is the sight of calving glaciers—massive chunks of ice dramatically breaking off and splashing into the sea. A Constant changing landscape 

Hidden Gem – Port of Sitka

Arriving in Sitka felt like stepping into a living tapestry of cultures . I wandered through the quiet streets as they set up for the 4th of July parade (the next day), then switched gears with a nature excursion where I spotted eagles soaring overhead, playful sea otters bobbing in the water, and even caught a glimpse of a bear in the distance. With its charming waterfront and lush, green forests, Sitka quickly became one of my favorite stops.

Juneau – 4th of July

Alaska’s capital, Juneau, is a treasure trove of adventure. Accessible only by sea or air, it offers a remote and rugged experience. We joined the Ships shore excursion to Mendenhall Glacier &  Whale watching, The drive was spectacular.  Arriving at Mendenhall we were greeted by a local guide who  showed us the best trails to access not only the closest point to the glacier but to stand near a roaring waterfall! WATCH OUT FOR BEARS!.

After a few hours of exploring we were transferred to a local Whale Watching charter – now this is what you come to the inside passage for – whales! We were so fortunate to see 2 sets of  mother and calf. It was long day but every part was worth it!  And to top it off the fact that we arrived on July 4th adds a special celebratory vibe.

Exploring the Salmon Capital of the world – Ketchikan

Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan is rich with native culture and natural beauty. We Strolled along the historic Creek Street boardwalk and made our way to visit the Totem Heritage Center, on our walk back we could hear lots of laughter and shouting- Ahhhh the Lumberjack show, this sounded fantastic and such a great way to experience the Alaska culture.  We slowly made our way down the main streets back to the ship and discovered so many hidden gem Christmas shops – I could worry about my luggage allowance later right ?   

This bustling little town offers a perfect snapshot of Alaskan life.

Daily High Tea at sea

One of the most delightfully refined—and surprisingly filling—experiences aboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth was afternoon tea in the Queen’s Room, Offered every afternoon at 3.15pm

The moment I stepped into the grand space, with its chandeliers, velvet drapes, and a string quartet playing something suitably swoony, I felt like I’d wandered into a scene from Downton Abbey—minus the drama.

White-gloved servers floated by with trays of finger sandwiches, warm scones (with clotted cream and jam), and picture-perfect pastries that were almost too pretty to eat, I chose a classic Earl Grey from the proper tea menu and did my best to sip with grace.

There’s a certain magic in this timeless tradition. It’s elegant, but not stuffy. You don’t need a title to enjoy it—just an appetite and maybe a slightly raised pinky. Watching the ocean drift past while enjoying tea and treats felt like the ultimate slow-down moment at sea.

It’s more than just a snack. It’s a ritual—served with silverware, ceremony, and just enough charm to make you feel royally spoiled.

Each day felt like a new postcard: waterfalls falling down rocky cliffs, whales waving their tails like they were saying, “Welcome to Alaska,” and small towns that seemed frozen in time, somewhere between old and new.

The formal dress at dinner wasn’t too fancy—it just made the whole experience feel special and elegant.

From silent discos to historic cocktail classes and lively pub trivia, Cunard is nothing like what you expect—it’s actually way better!